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Monte Sereno decides it needs new commission
By Gloria I. Wang
Concerns about city council objectivity have led the Monte Sereno City Council to revamp its site and architecture commission. As it happens, there has been a demand in Monte Sereno for more opportunities for citizen involvement.
The commission, which reviews certain development and housing projects--those that have a potential impact on the neighborhood, as determined by city staff--has consisted of two of the council members since it was formed. Now, the council is proposing to replace those council members with three or four citizens.
One of the reasons, Monte Sereno Mayor Jack Lucas said, is that some of the commission's decisions have been appealed to the city council. But that process is not always fair to the applicant, because the same two council members who made the decision also hear the appeal.
Lucas said the council was also facing pressure for more opportunities for citizens to become involved. Monte Sereno has few committees and commissions with positions for the public.
Lucas mentioned that three of the council seats will become available in the 2002 election; Lucas and Councilwoman Suzanne Jackson have maxed out on term limits and cannot seek re-election. As a result, Lucas said, the city is looking for candidates for the council. Serving on the site and architecture commission "is a great springboard for people who want to get involved in city council," Lucas said.
Currently the commission members are Councilwoman Barbara Nesbet and Vice Mayor David Baxter. The two meet every first Wednesday of the month to review building applicants, and visit sites on their own before the meeting.
The council will continue to function as the city's planning commission and have the final say on projects that either require variances--exceptions to city regulations--or use permits.
At the March 19 meeting, city council members will draft guidelines for the new commission. Lucas said they will examine criteria for membership--which will include residency in Monte Sereno, a registered voter requirement and a familiarity with the city's General Plan. The council will also come up with a procedure for recruitment for the commission. It will also study the city's zoning ordinances and review the findings the commission must make in order to approve or deny a project.
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Los Gatos, California Since 1881
